The Chiefs haven’t been as strong against the run this season as they were last season, yet still hold an advantage against one of the league’s premier running teams. Meanwhile, Baltimore boasts a great secondary unit and one of the finest linebackers in football.
As both teams exchanged three-and-outs to open the second quarter, Baltimore found its breakthrough on its next drive when defensive end Charles Omenihu stripped Mahomes and recovered it at their 1-yard line for a safety.
Now the game’s on the line as the Ravens attempt to pull within one score. On their third play of this drive, Jackson found Nelson Agholor for a 39-yard gain to get inside Kansas City’s 10; but on Mahomes’ next throw into traffic in the end zone and intercepted by Ravens safety Darrell Williams.
At last! A turnover! And for once this season, a mistake by their opponent that gives the Ravens an opportunity to capitalize. Unfortunately, their drive ends in Tommy Townsend punting away from a promising drive.
Kansas City won the coin toss and decided to go for it on fourth-and-2 from Ravens 41-yard line on fourth down, as coach Reid felt confident his defense could maintain their advantage and Mahomes had an excellent chance at finding Travis Kelce for a big gain.
The Chiefs then mounted an 11-play, 86-yard scoring drive anchored by Mahomes’ breathtaking escape and Kelce’s 30-yard catch – something no defense could stop given their talent in front.
After several punts, the Ravens finally had an opportunity to score before halftime when they took over with 6:18 left in the second quarter. Unfortunately, however, their drive ultimately fizzled out and they had no other choice than punting again.
As it begins to rain heavily, it appears like a perfect opportunity for the Ravens to use one of their timeouts – but instead HC John Harbaugh used it instead to address Lamar Jackson about his poor decision making and use 3rd and 8 as an opportunity for conversation on Jackson. Jackson attempted a pass play but instead gave away possession! KC punted!